Independent Learning

At BVGA we aim to develop independence, autonomy and a love of learning in all our students. They are expected to take a leading role in their own educational journey and become confident learners, confident communicators, and confident future citizens. We believe that learning is for life, not just for the classroom.  

Independent Learning in the Classroom

To support Independent Learning in the classroom, we use our Toolkit for students which sets out the cycle of Independent Learning that they will follow across lessons. At each stage, students are encouraged to reflect on their learning, therefore developing their metacognitive skills. 

Independent Learning beyond the Classroom

Here at BVGA we encourage our students to use the CAP approach to independent learning. Independent learning CAP activities support learning in three ways: consolidation of learning, application of learning and preparation for future learning. They help our students to know more, understand more and be able to do more. 

Below is an introduction to the range of activities we use to support our approach to independent learning.

CAP	Why is this important?	Activities
C  Consolidation	You need to consolidate your learning.   Do you remember and understand what you have learnt?	Review Read Recap  Revise  Test
A  Application	You need to be able to apply your learning.  Can you use your learning to successfully complete a task?	Think Discuss  Write Create Design Test  Problem solve
P  Preparation	You need to prepare for future curriculum learning.  Are you ready for the next step in your learning?	Read Research Discover  Investigate  Explore

 

---

Key Stage 3 

In Key Stage 3, students are set regular independent learning tasks which support them to deepen their knowledge and understanding of each subject. Tasks set include short activities designed to consolidate learning in lessons, apply learning from lessons and prepare for future learning.

Students are expected to bring a book to school and to read at home every day.

Parents can find out what students are currently studying and how they are assessed in each subject here

---

Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 

In Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5, we expect students to take even greater responsibility for their own learning. Teachers support this by ensuring all students are aware of the following information:  

• Exam board and specification  
• Course content  
• Key knowledge, skills, vocabulary and reading 
• How students are assessed  
• When students are assessed. 

In preparation for their mock exams, students in Year 11 are given structured guidance on Independent Learning to ensure a consistent approach across their core subjects: 

---

Organising Independent Learning

Before School

• The Canteen, Quad and Sixth Form Study area are open from 7:30am every morning.
• The Hub is open from 7:30am every morning.
• Breakfast Club is open for Nurture students from 8:00am every morning.

After School

• Masterclasses for exam years take place from 2:50-3:50pm, Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays.
• The Hub is open after school for independent study 2.50- 4.00pm Mondays and Wednesdays.

 Parents can find out more about learning in Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 here

---

Linking Learning to Life - Wider World Links

In order to become confident future citizens, we want all of our students to understand how their classroom learning and independent learning is relevant to their lives beyond school. Our Wider World Links Toolkit encourages students to make links between classroom learning and the application of knowledge and skills in the world beyond school. It helps them to consider how their learning links to real-life contexts and future career pathways. All students are given the opportunity to explore where their learning can take them.